Arrival of Julian Peterson gives Lions credibility and a lot of options

AP File PhotoJulian Peterson is a proven run stopper, but he can also drop back into coverage and rush the passer.

Of all the changes the Detroit Lions have made this season, the one at strong side linebacker might be the most startling. Former starter Alex Lewis, who was cut recently because he had almost no chance to make the roster, has been replaced by a five-time Pro Bowl player in Julian Peterson.

Peterson is entering his 10th NFL season but doesn't show any signs of slowing down - he was an All-Pro selection in 2007 and was named to the Pro Bowl in each of the last three years.

In addition to immediate respectability, Peterson also gives the Lions wide-ranging versatility at that position. He's a proven run stopper, he can drop back into coverage effectively and he's also a pass rusher - he has 46 career sacks.

The Seattle Seahawks, who couldn't pay each of their star linebackers, gave up Peterson for defensive tackle Cory Redding and a fifth-round draft pick. While the Lions need line help, they couldn't pass on a playmaker like Peterson. On first and second down, Peterson will play his normal linebacker spot but, on obvious passing downs, he will often drop down to a pass-rushing defensive end position.

This maneuver can be effective in bringing blitzes from that side because the Lions can overload it and show a threat with safeties or corners. Because Peterson has good coverage skills, he can fake a blitz and drop into a zone and replace one of the blitzers in coverage. Peterson is also versatile enough to handle the "hot'' receiver and shut down a play for no gain or even a loss even if the blitz doesn't get there.

A former first-round draft pick (16th overall) from Michigan State, Peterson spent his first five years with the San Francisco 49ers before going to the Seahawks. He's started in at least 14 games in seven of the last eight years and hasn't missed a game in more than three seasons.